Noting Results of Nigerian Presidential, Parliamentary Elections, Secretary-General Calls on All Citizens to Accept Outcome

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General takes note of the results of the Nigerian presidential and parliamentary elections announced yesterday by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).  He has spoken to President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and Major General (Ret.) Muhammadu Buhari.

The Secretary-General congratulates President-elect Buhari.  He commends President Jonathan for his leadership throughout the electoral process and his statesmanship in upholding the democratic process.  He also applauds the INEC for having organized and carried out the elections in a professional manner under challenging circumstances.  He calls on all Nigerians to accept the outcome of the elections.  He also appeals to them to address any complaints they may have through existing legal and constitutional channels.

The Secretary-General believes the successful conduct of these polls is a testament to the maturity of Nigeria’s democracy.  He hopes that the same democratic spirit will prevail in the conduct of the Governorship and State House of Assembly elections on 11 April.